Dud typhoid vaccine warning

Experts have warned that a faulty vaccine means as many as 700,000 people may not be fully protected against typhoid.

Sanofi Pasteur MSD have recalled 88% of its stock of the Typhim Vi vaccine after it was discovered some of the samples were "too weak".

The Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) warned that 729,606 people who were given the vaccine since January 2011 might not be fully immunised against the infection.

They advised that people should not get the vaccine again but should take extra care when they went overseas.

Typhoid is most prevalent in South Asia and South East Asia, and can be fatal if it is not caught early and treated with antibiotics.

The MHRA said: "There are no concerns over the safety of this vaccine, but the recall has taken place because the vaccine may not be as effective as it should be."

"Anyone who has been to a typhoid region of the world and has a fever, abdominal pain and vomiting should contact a healthcare professional. They can also give them information and advice about minimising the risk of getting typhoid."

A Department of Health spokeswoman said: "Vaccine is still available and we are working with vaccine manufacturers to help ensure that current supply problems are resolved as soon as possible."

"People who have recently been immunised, should seek medical advice about precautions to take whilst abroad to minimise the risk of infection, in case the vaccine has not provided full protection."